Further Travels on Okinawa

Posted on 01/10/2023 Last updated on 01/11/2024

If you are seeking a subtropical escape from the frigid climes of Honshu this winter season, look no further than the Yaeyama Islands. Located at the far end of Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost prefecture, it is about as far away as you can get from Kanto or Kansai without leaving Japan! Indeed, the islands were formerly known as the Ryukyus, an independent kingdom that developed cultures and languages highly distinct from those of Japan.

While the island beaches and coral reefs have long been the place for water sports aficionados, the relatively warmer temperatures (with average highs of 20 degrees centigrade) in Okinawa from December to February lend themselves equally well to onshore explorations.

Here are some of my recommendations for places to check out:

Ishigaki Island: blue oceans and Ryukyuan culture

The best way to explore Ishigaki at your own pace is to rent a car. If not an option, consider joining a small group tour offered by Utakuna Ishigakijima. You can join a tailor-made excursion to see the islands from a local perspective.

The jewel of Ishigaki’s beaches is Kabira Bay, which faces out onto an emerald-blue lagoon that evokes a desert island in the Pacific Ocean. Postcard views are to be had from the higher up observation platform located near a small shrine. Swimming is not permitted here, however taking a glass-bottom boat cruise run by Kabira Marine Service of the vibrant coral reefs is a rewarding experience.

Iriomote Island: The “Last Jungle” of Japan

A 35-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki Ferry Terminal will take you across the seas to Ohara Port on Iriomote. What sets this apart from other Okinawan Islands is the lush primeval jungle that covers 90% of the island surface. A designated National Park, its three mountains are among the highest in the Okinawan archipelago.

It is possible to spot the beautiful and rare Iriomote wild cat at night expeditions, but they are critically endangered, with only some 150 individuals left. You can also discover the numerous other species unique to Iriomote, including the crested serpent eagle, the Kishinoue giant skink and the Ryukyu yellow-margined box turtle.

Further Exploration

Trekking and canoe tours are more stimulating ways to learn more about this
island’s nature and wildlife while enjoying breathtaking scenic spots. These include the waterfalls at Kanpire, Mariyudu and Pinaisara. Tours are run by knowledgeable local guides with private vehicle transfer included, and many custom options are also available.

A great way to finish your trek around Iriomote is with a relaxing ride over to Yubu Island off the coast. The taxi of choice here is none other than a buffalo cart! There are some 40 trained Asian water buffalos, known to the locals by name, which trudge the shallow waters between the two isles in 15-20-minutes. Yubu Island, just over 2 kilometers in circumference, is dubbed the ‘flower paradise’ and we soon found out why: the entire island is like a botanical garden.

There’s no shortage of things to experience in Okinawa. Here are a few more ideas!

Photo Credits:

Top photo: naophoto11さん on PhotoAC